National Shoe Drive Initiative: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the National Shoe Drive Initiative?
The National Shoe Drive Initiative is a community service effort led by the SPEAR Foundation to provide new shoes to individuals and families in need. Instead of collecting physical shoes, we accept gift card donations from shoe retailers, allowing recipients to choose the right size and style that best suits their needs.
2. Why the shift from Soles for Little Souls to the National Shoe Drive?
While Soles for Little Souls provided physical shoe donations, the National Shoe Drive ensures:
✔️ Dignity & Choice – Recipients can select the shoes they need.
✔️ Better Fit & Functionality – No more size mismatches.
✔️ Wider Reach – Gift cards allow for purchases at stores across the country.
This shift empowers individuals while maintaining the same mission of providing essential footwear to those in need.
3. How can I donate to the National Shoe Drive Initiative?
You can contribute by:
✔️ Purchasing a gift card from major shoe retailers (Foot Locker, Nike, DSW, etc.)
✔️ Mailing or electronically sending the gift card to our designated donation center
✔️ Partnering with us to host a local donation event
4. What types of gift cards are accepted?
We accept physical or e-gift cards from retailers such as:
✔️ Foot Locker
✔️ DSW
✔️ Nike
✔️ Adidas
✔️ Famous Footwear
✔️ Walmart / Target (shoe department)
If you’re unsure about a retailer, feel free to reach out to us before making a purchase.
5. Who benefits from the National Shoe Drive?
Donations directly support:
✔️ Families & children in need
✔️ Shelters & transitional housing programs
✔️ School-aged youth & community outreach programs
We work with local organizations to ensure donations reach the communities that need them most.
6. When does the National Shoe Drive take place?
Donation Period: February 1 – March 22
Distribution Events: Throughout the campaign, with a final push on March 22
7. How can organizations get involved?
Community-based organizations, schools, and Sigma Gamma Rho chapters can:
✔️ Host a donation drive
✔️ Partner with SPEAR to distribute gift cards
✔️ Promote the initiative through local media and events
8. How do I promote the National Shoe Drive on social media?
Help us spread the word!
Use the hashtags: #NationalShoeDrive #StepUpForChange #SPEARFoundation
Share a post about why you’re supporting the initiative.
Create a short video encouraging others to donate!
9. Can I make a monetary donation instead of a gift card?
Yes! Monetary donations will be used exclusively to purchase shoe gift cards for families in need.
Submit your National Shoe Drive
Initiative Report
Click Here to Submit Your Contribution Report
Who do I contact for more information?
📩 Email us at nsdi@spearfoundation.org